Pickett, Morristown West ready for fresh start in 2021

“I am entering my 5th year as the head coach, seventh year total at West,” Pickett said. “I spent two years as an assistant coach under Nathan Fritz. Before that, I was an assistant coach at Walters State. I have to say I’m very excited for this season.”

After COVID-19 left spring sports around the nation suspending their seasons, the 2021 season is nothing to take for granted.

And Pickett and his team understand that.

“Last year was tough for everyone,” Pickett said. “Were following all guidelines, putting safety first, and making sure we are doing our part to play a full season.”

As mentioned previously, the Trojans are young but the expectations from these guys are high.

“We are very young and full of energy,” Pickett said. “I have expectations for sure—from all my guys. We’re young and need everyone to step up and just do their jobs. Play ball and have fun.”

West comes in with only seven upperclassmen on the roster—only two of them being seniors in Sam Collins and Jordan Holdway.

Collins and Holdway will have to step up to lead this team, but the focus isn’t on just those two. Pickett is counting on his whole team, even the 14 underclassmen to take charge and become leaders this season.

As far as the style, Pickett believes his team is well-rounded and prepared for any game on the schedule.

The big game for the Trojans is their series against Morristown East in the final two games on April 29 and April 30.

“Everyone on the schedule is a great match up,” Pickett said. “Of course, our cross-town rival with Morristown East is huge but always fun. We’re excited just to get out on the field and play ball.”

East will be just one of the challenges for West in their loaded conference of District 2-AAA. Seymour, Sevier County, Jefferson County and South-Doyle all come in just as ready as any other team.

“We have a great conference,” Pickett said. “I personally feel it’s one of the toughest in the state. We’ll see how it goes but that’s why you play. You never know in baseball it’s all about who shows up that day and outperforms their opponent.”

West hits off its season in a series against the Cocke County Fighting Cocks on Monday, Mar. 15 at Trojan Park and will travel to Cocke County on Tuesday, Mar. 16 to wrap up that series.